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NTSB Report
July 1, 2008 · Bell 47G-3B · N8468E
Mullen, NE
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 1, 2008
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Mullen, NE
Aircraft
Bell 47G-3B
Tail Number
N8468E
Operator
Thedford Air Service
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
DFW08CA188
The airline transport rated pilot was performing his third takeoff of the day with a full load of chemicals on an aerial application flight. On initial climb the helicopter did not have sufficient power to maintain the climb and began to settle. The helicopter settled into a lake in approximately 5 1/2 feet of water. The helicopter remained upright and sustained substantial damage to the drive train and rotor system as well as extensive water damage. The pilot, sole occupant, was not injured and was able to egress unassisted. The pilot stated in the Pilot / Operator Accident / Incident Report that the accident could have been prevented if he would have paid more attention to flying the helicopter than being concerned with mixing and loading of chemicals.
NTSB Probable Cause
The plot's distraction with the chemical load resulting the failure to maintain control of the helicopter. A factor was no suitable terrain for landing.
Full Narrative
The airline transport rated pilot was performing his third takeoff of the day with a full load of chemicals on an aerial application flight. On initial climb the helicopter did not have sufficient power to maintain the climb and began to settle. The helicopter settled into a lake in approximately 5 1/2 feet of water. The helicopter remained upright and sustained substantial damage to the drive train and rotor system as well as extensive water damage. The pilot, sole occupant, was not injured and was able to egress unassisted. The pilot stated in the Pilot / Operator Accident / Incident Report that the accident could have been prevented if he would have paid more attention to flying the helicopter than being concerned with mixing and loading of chemicals.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time07:00 MDT
Nearest AirportHooker County Airport (20nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBell 47G-3B
Tail NumberN8468E
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorThedford Air Service
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · TVO-435 A1A · Reciprocating · 260
Seats3
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 72 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind180° @ 8 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point64 F / 54
Altimeter29.96 inHg
Observation Time06:50
Weather SourceWFAC